Anchoring in a construction model

ABSTRACT

A method suitable for anchoring an anchoring element in an object, which anchoring element is compressible in the direction of a compression axis under local enlargement of a distance between a peripheral anchoring element surface and the compression axis. The anchoring element has a coupling-in face which serves for coupling the mechanical vibrations into the anchoring element, which coupling-in face is not parallel to the compression axis. The anchoring element further includes a thermoplastic material which in areas of the peripheral surface enlargement forms at least a part of the surface of the anchoring element, the method includes the steps of: providing a bore in the object; positioning the anchoring element in the bore; and coupling the compressing force and the mechanical vibrations through the coupling-in face into the positioned anchoring element.

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/442,304 filed on Apr. 15, 2009, and which is currently pending.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention is in the field of construction, especially buildingindustry, timber construction, furniture industry and mechanicalconstruction and concerns a method of anchoring an anchoring element inan object of construction material, which object has a porous orstructured surface, the object surface, into which the anchoring elementis anchored, being of wood, a wood composite (such as chipboard,particle board, oriented strand board etc), cardboard, concrete, brick,plaster, stone (such as sandstone) or industrial hard foam, into which aliquefied material can penetrate under pressure. The invention alsoconcerns a corresponding anchoring element to be anchored in an object,and a corresponding device.

2. Description of Related Art

Methods of anchoring connecting elements in an opening in a fibrous orporous building material with the aid of mechanical vibrations are knownfrom publications such as WO 98/00109, WO 00/79137 and WO 2006/002569.According to these methods, a connecting element is placed in aprefabricated opening of the object or pressed against the surface ofthe object by a directed force, which in turn creates an opening. Whilea force acts upon the connecting element in the direction of an axis ofthe opening, the element is excited by mechanical vibrations. Theconnecting element comprises thermoplastic material at least on onesurface, which comes into contact with the material of the object duringthis procedure. The energy of the mechanical vibrations is set toliquefy thermoplastic material in the area of a predetermined anchoringpoint by mechanical vibrations and to press it into the pores or surfacestructures of the object by pressure building up at the anchoring pointbetween a wall of the opening and the connecting element, thus forming amost effective macroscopic anchoring.

There are situations however, in which anchoring of connecting elementsby mechanical vibrations according to the state-of-the-art technologydoes not suffice or in which, e.g. due to limited accessibility of theopening, it is not possible to excite a known connecting element withsufficient vibratory energy to ensure a reliable anchoring by the knownmethods.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore the object of the invention to provide a method ofanchoring an anchoring element (the term used in this text for aconnecting element or any other piece to be anchored directly in theobject) and a corresponding anchoring element suitable for beinganchored in the object material under conditions, which hitherto madesuch anchoring impossible or extremely difficult.

A first aspect of the invention provides an anchoring element suitablefor being anchored in an opening in the object of construction materialwith the aid of mechanical vibration. The anchoring element is able tobe compressed in the direction of a chosen compression axis with theeffect of a local enlargement of a distance between a peripheralanchoring element surface and the compression axis (measured at rightangles to the compression axis). The anchoring element includes acoupling-in face for the coupling of a compressing force and of themechanical vibration into the anchoring element, and a thermoplasticmaterial, which forms at least a part of the anchoring element surfacein the region of the aforementioned distance enlargement. A method ofanchoring such an anchoring element in an object comprises the followingsteps:

-   -   providing an opening in the object    -   positioning the anchoring element in the opening so that the        compression axis extends essentially parallel with an opening        axis;    -   coupling a compressing force and mechanical vibrations via the        coupling-in face into the positioned anchoring element, thereby        causing the anchoring element to be compressed and, due to the        distance enlargement, to be pressed at least locally against the        side walls of the opening and therewith causing the        thermoplastic material to liquefy at least partly where it is in        contact with the side walls and to be pressed into the        structures of the object, in order to form a form-fit connection        after re-solidification.

A further subject of the invention is an anchoring element to beanchored by this method.

In the present text, the term “anchoring element” is used for describingany element fashioned for being anchored in an object of constructionmaterial. The term is used primarily for connecting elements, i.e.elements serving to connect the object with a further object. Suchconnecting elements can be used in a manner similar to conventionalscrews, dowels, nails, hooks, etc., but the term “anchoring element”also describes elements that are anchored in an object as such and donot require a further attachment.

The object in which the anchoring element is to be anchored,—this tooapplies to all aspects of the invention—is at least partly made of amaterial which is rigid and porous, includes a structured surface (i.e.a surface with uneven patches, porous openings, or similar structurese.g. mechanically produced), and/or which can be penetrated by aliquefied material under pressure. Preferably the object consists atleast partly of wood or a similar material, e.g. material made from woodchips or shavings or a composite containing the latter. However, thematerial may also be cardboard (or paperboard), concrete, metallizedfoam, hard plastic foam, brick, stone or any other material suitable forconstruction and in line with the aforementioned definition.

In this text “thermoplastic material” is used for describing a materialcomprising at least one thermoplastic component able to be liquefied bymechanical vibrations while in contact with a hard surface. Thethermoplastic material makes up at least a part of the anchoringelement; it may form the whole anchoring element. Besidesthermoplastics, the thermoplastic material can also includenon-thermoplastic components, such as reinforcing fibers, reinforcingsplints, filling materials etc. Non-thermoplastic components can beevenly distributed in the thermoplastic material or be present invarying concentrations. The anchoring element can further include areasfree of thermoplastic material. Such areas may be of metal, glass,ceramic material, or of non-thermoplastic materials or thermoplasticmaterial(s) liquefiable at substantially higher temperatures compared tothe basic thermoplastic material.

The mechanical frequency of the mechanical vibrations—this too appliesto all aspects of the invention described in this text—often liesbetween 2 kHz and 200 kHz and their amplitudes are around 10 μm, i.e.between 1 μm and 100 μm. If the thermoplastic material is to take over aload bearing function and is to liquefy only in the named contact areas,it ought to have an elasticity coefficient of more than 0.5 GPa andplastification temperatures of up to 200° C., of between 200° C. and300° C. or of more than 300° C.

An opening in the object—whether it is a through hole or a blindhole—into which an anchoring element is placed for subsequent anchoringis in the following termed as a “bore”. Of course an anchoring accordingto the invention can also take place in an opening not specificallydrilled for the purpose, but e.g. contained in the natural state of theobject or produced for some other reason. Neither is the use of the term“bore” restricted to openings produced by means of a particulartechnique but extends e.g. to openings produced by punching, lasercutting, or cutting with the aid of particle radiation etc., as well asto openings contained in the natural state of the object.

In most embodiments of the invention according to its first aspect,although not necessarily, the compression causes a local enlargement ofan outer cross-section at right angles to the compression axis. The term“outer cross-section” describes the cross sectional area encompassed byan outer contour of the element cut at right angles to the compressionaxis, i.e. the presence of possible cavities within the anchoringelement is disregarded in the calculation of the outer cross-section. Inmany cases—although not necessarily—an enlargement of the outercross-section signifies an enlargement of the cross sectional areaencompassed by a convex envelope (convex hull) of the anchoring elementbody.

The coupling-in face is advantageously at least partly planar andextends at an angle to the compression axis. “At an angle to thecompression axis” in this context means, “not parallel to thecompression axis”. The coupling-in face being perpendicular to thecompression axis, i.e. at a right angle, is particularly advantageous.An angle between the compression axis and the coupling-in face of atleast 45°, or better still, of at least 60° is generally preferred.

The selected compression axis is generally a specific axis of theanchoring element, i.e. the anchoring element is fashioned such thatcompression along this compression axis is clearly defined andcontrolled and results in the desired local enlargement of the distancebetween the peripheral surface and the compression axis, i.e. thedesired enlargement of the cross sectional area. In particular, thecompression effect along the compression axis at a given (small)compressing force can be substantially greater than along other axes.Compression along other axes, for example perpendicular to the chosencompression axis, in addition or as an alternative cannot e.g. result inan enlargement of the cross sectional area perpendicular to the chosenaxis, cannot be carried out in a controlled manner and/or only withexcessive energy. In some embodiments the compression axis may be markedby symmetry, e.g. the anchoring element may be approximatelyrotationally symmetrical in relation to the compression axis.

The term “liquefied” describes a condition of the thermoplastic materialin which it is plastic to the extent that, while under pressure, it canpenetrate pores whose dimensions are smaller by at least one magnitudethan a characteristic dimension of the anchoring element. In this sense“liquefied” also applies to thermoplastic material when it comprises acomparatively high viscosity of e.g. up to 10⁴ mPa·s.

The invention according to the first aspect treads a new path comparedwith the state-of-the-art technology. The state-of-the-art technology isfamiliar with methods of providing an opening in the object andsubsequently anchoring the—e.g. roughly pin shaped—anchoring element inthe opening by positioning it in the opening and applying ultrasonicvibration to it. During this process, the thermoplastic material of theanchoring element may be liquefied on the circumferential surfaces ofthe anchoring element and, if applicable, penetrate pores along the borewalls. However, it is found that the anchoring effect of this“non-pressurized” penetration into pores is often rather moderate.According to the state-of-the-art technology it is possible to achieve alateral pressure by shaping the bore conically, which is elaborate. Incontrast, according to the invention, pressure in a lateral direction isincreased by the compression and accompanying enlargement of thedistance between compression axis and a peripheral surface of theanchoring element. This, on the one hand, increases the friction forcesgenerated on the circumferential anchoring element surface and causesthe energy coupled into the anchoring element via the mechanicalvibrations to induce a liquefaction of the thermoplastic materialprecisely in that region, i.e. laterally, along the circumferentialsurface. On the other hand the lateral pressure also drives theliquefied material into laterally existing pores or other structures(surface structures, cavities etc.) of the bore and thus results in aparticularly solid anchoring.

Hence the anchoring element according to the invention makes it possibleto exert pressure upon the lateral surfaces of the bore. This enables ananchoring of the anchoring element even in situations where no pressurecan be applied to the bottom of the bore—e.g. because the object is verybrittle and/or very thin—or where the bore has no bottom because it isthrough-going. In such a case, additional means for absorbing thecompressing force must be provided. Such means are discussed in detailbelow.

The anchoring element may be designed in various ways, wherein thecompression of the anchoring element is effected in correspondingvarious ways:

-   -   The anchoring element consists of at least two separate        components, wherein, due to their geometry, the components are        shifted relative to each other under the effect of the        compressing force. Shifting occurs along surfaces that are        neither parallel with nor perpendicular to the compression axis        but extend obliquely relative to the latter. The anchoring        element may be designed e.g. as a system of cones and/or wedges        or as a system with a spreader element, which does not        necessarily need to comprise thermoplastic material and e.g. is        brought into the bore prior to the anchoring element        component(s) comprising thermoplastic material. The enlargement        of the cross sectional area is effected either by the shifting        of the anchoring element components relative to each other (e.g.        wedge system) or by shifting the anchoring element components        relative to each other and simultaneously spreading them (e.g.        cone system).    -   The anchoring element consists of at least two components linked        via predetermined breaking points or predetermined liquefaction        points, where the components are separated from each other when        the compression force, and possibly also the mechanical        vibrations are applied. The required enlargement of the cross        sectional area is effected by shifting the anchoring element        components relative to each other as described in the previous        example.    -   A separate element is provided in the bore for exerting a force        counteracting the compressing force, wherein this element        includes a surface section which is oblique to the compression        axis. The required local enlargement of the distance between the        compression axis and the peripheral surface of the anchoring        element is effected by shifting the anchoring element or a        component thereof along the named surface, wherein the shifted        component may or may not be spread.    -   The anchoring element consists of one piece and includes a        section which is expandable by the compressing force. The        anchoring element is e.g. shaped like a hollow truncated cone, a        hollow wedge, a hat or a tube and advantageously includes slots        to facilitate the expansion. The counterforce to the compressing        force can be exerted by a surface perpendicular to the        compression axis, or by a surface oblique to the compression        axis. The latter case constitutes a combination with one of the        three aforementioned embodiments.    -   The anchoring element includes at least one buckling location        designed as a mechanically weak point (e.g. hole, slot, area of        reduced wall thickness) or as a hinge. The local weak areas are        softened during the anchoring procedure, causing anchoring        element portions between the weak areas to tilt towards each        other under the influence of the compressing force.

In other words: the compressing force can cause either just shifting ofthe anchoring element or of anchoring element components (e.g. wedgesystems), or shifting in combination with deformation (e.g. multi-partanchoring elements with spreadable components) or just deformation (e.g.one-piece anchoring element able to buckle or to be expanded). Thereinthe shifting and/or the deformation can be supported by an appropriatelyshaped tool and/or by a separate auxiliary element. In the case ofmulti-part anchoring elements, it is advantageous to design componentsurfaces, along which the components are shifted relative to each other,thus that they are welded together during anchoring. In the case ofanchoring elements or anchoring element components to be deformed, it isadvantageous if the tensions caused by the deformation are resolvedunder the anchoring conditions.

In any embodiment the anchoring element or at least one of the anchoringelement components may comprise an elastically pliant, e.g. metalliccore; such a core may be formed as a metal sheet and comprise an edgewhich, during compression, is moved radially outwards and thereby cutsinto the object, providing an additional anchoring.

“Oblique to the compression axis” means at an angle less than 90° andmore than 0° relative to the compression axis. Advantageously theoblique surfaces form an angle between 20° and 70° with the anchoringelement axis before anchoring.

Preferably, the anchoring element is free of tensions when anchored,i.e. there are no forces counteracting the deformation. This is achievedby the deformation occurring while the thermoplastic material is softand re-solidifies when deformed.

For physical reasons there is a counterforce to any acting force. If thebore in the object is a blind hole, the counterforce can be exerted bythe material of the object at the bottom of the bore. The inventionaccording to its first aspect (as well as according to the second andaccording to the third aspect described below) however, is especiallysuited to situations, where it is not possible or not desirable that theobject absorbs the compressing force (or synonymously, exerts thecounterforce). In many relevant advantageous embodiments, thecompressing force is imposed between a tool and a counter-element(retaining element). The counter-element is placed and held in such aposition that it does not transmit force to the object but that theforce is exerted e.g. by an apparatus or a person in charge of theanchoring procedure, by an assistant or by a suitable holder or otherdevice or spring element etc.

A preferred embodiment of the anchoring element consists entirely of thethermoplastic material. It may however also comprise a non-liquefiablecore and still be compressible, e.g. if the core comprises severaltelescopic sheaths.

A second aspect of the invention provides a method of anchoring ananchoring element in an object with the aid of a tool including aproximal side and a distal side, wherein the distal tool side includes acoupling-out face. The anchoring element comprises a coupling-in facethrough which the mechanical vibrations are coupled into the anchoringelement and a material liquefiable by mechanical energy, which forms atleast a part of the anchoring element surface. The coupling-out face ofthe tool is adapted to the coupling-in face of the anchoring element andenables the transmission of forces and mechanical vibrations out of thetool into the anchoring element. The method comprises the followingsteps:

-   -   providing a bore in the object;    -   positioning the anchoring element on the object such that        thermoplastic areas of the anchoring element are in contact with        the surface of the object;    -   coupling a force and mechanical vibrations via the coupling-in        face into the positioned anchoring element, thereby liquefying        at least part of the liquefiable material where it is in contact        with walls of the bore and pressing it into the object in order        to form a form-fit connection with the walls after        re-solidification, wherein the force and the mechanical        vibrations are coupled into the anchoring element with the aid        of a tool, wherein a proximal tool side is designed for        mechanical vibrations to be coupled into the tool and the distal        tool side comprises a coupling-out face through which the        mechanical vibrations are coupled into the anchoring element,        and wherein either the force coupled into the tool is a tensile        force (force in a direction from the distal tool side towards        the proximal tool side) or a counter-element (retaining element)        suitable for exerting a counterforce is provided by which        counterforce the counter-element is put under tensile force.

The second aspect of the invention also provides a device for theapplication of the method. This device comprises an anchoring elementsuitable for being anchored in an object with the aid of mechanicalvibrations as well as a tool (e.g. a sonotrode). The anchoring elementincludes a coupling-in face through which the mechanical vibrations arecoupled into the anchoring element and a material liquefiable bymechanical energy, which forms at least a part of the anchoring elementsurface. The coupling-in face of the anchoring element is adapted to thecoupling-out face of the tool. A coupling between the tool and theanchoring element is designed to withstand tensile force. The anchoringelement is anchored in the bore with the aid of mechanical vibration anda pulling force (causing a tensile load in the tool), whereby thethermoplastic material is at least partly liquefied where in contactwith the object and pressed into the object in order to form a form-fitconnection with the object, when re-solidified.

Whereas according the state-of-the-art technology, a compression force(in a direction from the proximal tool side towards the distal toolside) is exerted on the tool for coupling a force into the anchoringelement, according to the second aspect of the invention, a tensileforce is exerted on the tool for coupling a force into the anchoringelement. This very simple measure opens up a lot of new possibilities,some of which are outlined below:

-   -   Anchoring in places difficult to access: the second aspect of        the invention allows, under certain circumstances, anchoring to        be carried out from a non-accessible side.    -   Favoring a procedure which does not stress the material of the        object: by applying a pulling force to the anchoring element and        counteracting it with a simple counter-element—e.g. a simple        perforated plate—practically all forces acting on the object can        be eliminated.    -   Possibility of using newly developed anchoring elements and        tools (sonotrodes).

For example, the coupling-out face of the tool faces “backwards”, i.e.towards the proximal tool side. This is the case e.g. when the normal ofthe coupling-out face extends approximately parallel to the direction ofthe tensile force.

Alternatively, the anchoring element is drawn through the bore in theobject, i.e. a pulling force is applied to the anchoring element andmoves the anchoring element to a certain extent inside the bore.

Particularly advantageous is a combination of the first and the secondaspect of the invention, i.e. the use of a compressible anchoringelement according to the first aspect in a device according to thesecond aspect, which device is designed such that in action a tensileforce acts on the tool.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the anchoring element isexpanded by the tool, i.e. by causing the tool to move, in an axialdirection, within the anchoring element and thereby locally expand it ina lateral direction, thereby causing the lateral walls of the anchoringelement to be pressed against walls of a bore in the constructionmaterial object.

The third aspect of the invention, accordingly provides a method ofanchoring an anchoring element in an object of construction materialwith the aid of mechanical vibrations using a tool. The anchoringelement comprises an axis and a material liquefiable by mechanicalvibrations, which forms at least a part of the surface of the anchoringelement, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   providing a bore in the object;    -   positioning the anchoring element in the bore;    -   providing a tool having a proximal portion and a distal end        portion;    -   positioning the tool in contact with to the anchoring element;    -   coupling the mechanical vibrations into the tool and        simultaneously moving the tool relative to the anchoring element        in axial direction, a portion of the tool moving in an interior        of the anchoring element, and thereby expanding the anchoring        element and pressing the anchoring element at least locally        against lateral walls of the bore and, due to the expansion and        the effect of mechanical vibrations coupled into the anchoring        element from the tool, liquefying the thermoplastic material at        least partly where in contact with the wall of the bore to yield        liquefied thermoplastic material, and pressing the liquefied        material into the construction material in order to form a        positive-fit connection with the wall after re-solidification.        This means that the third aspect of the invention is based on        the fact that, with the aid of the tool, the thermoplastic        material is liquefied or plastified in a peripheral region of        the anchoring element and advantageously also in the area of the        axially extending recess and is pressed radially outward. As        with the procedure according to the first aspect, with this        procedure too an anchoring is achieved by means of        interpenetration of object structures in a lateral wall of the        bore in the object. Relevant advantages and freedom of design of        the first aspect of the invention also apply to the third aspect        of the invention.

According to a preferred embodiment of the third aspect of the inventionthe anchoring element consists entirely of the thermoplastic material.

Particularly advantageous is a combination of the second aspect of theinvention and the third aspect, i.e. a procedure according to theteaching of the third aspect, wherein the force is coupled into the toolas a tensile force.

According to a further embodiment of the third aspect of the invention,the anchoring element is expanded by the tool and therefore pressedagainst the lateral walls of the bore, is not anchored in these lateralwalls by means of a liquefied material, but by other means, e.g. bysurface structures acting like barbs.

In embodiments of any one of the three aspects of the invention, thetool may, after anchoring, be removed, or it may remain in place and,for example, be affixed to the anchoring element by re-solidifiedmaterial that was at least partly liquefied during anchoring. In thelatter cases, the tool may, after anchoring, serve as a functional partof the anchoring element. It may, for example, be used in a load bearingmanner and may comprise means for affixing a further element to it suchas a structure for forming a positive fit connection (such as athreading, a bayonet fixing, an eyelet, or a structure which an otherelement may be glued or welded or soldered etc.) or a fastener headpressing or other protuberance pressing the further element onto theobject etc.

In embodiments where the tool remains in place and is affixed to theanchoring element, the tool (being a sonotrode during anchoring) mayhave the function of a fastener, such as a ‘screw’, a ‘nail’, afastening pin, a fastening bolt etc, whereas the anchoring elementitself may be viewed as a kind of “dowel” for the fastener. Theinvention, according to a further aspect, thus most generally disclosesthe principle of fastening a fastener to an object of constructionmaterial, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   bringing an anchoring element comprising thermoplastic material        in contact with the object,    -   bringing the fastener in contact with the anchoring element,    -   coupling mechanical oscillations into the fastener and causing        them to be transferred from the fastener into the anchoring        element, and at the same time coupling a translation force into        the fastener and causing this translation force to act upon the        anchoring element,    -   the joint action of the mechanical oscillations and of the force        causing at least a portion of the thermoplastic material to melt        in contact with the object of construction material and in a        bore thereof (the bore being pre-made or being produced by the        joint action of the mechanical oscillations and the force), and    -   during the coupling of mechanical oscillations, fixing the        fastener to the anchoring element.

The fixing of the fastener to the anchoring element may be done by theeffect of the joint action of the mechanical oscillations and of theforce, for example causing the anchoring element to be welded to thefastener and/or by other positive fit connection means such as barb likestructures of the fastener etc. The fastener is at least partially madeof material not liquefiable by the mechanical oscillations, such as ametal or hard plastics.

The principle of this further aspect is preferably combined with any oneof the three above described aspects of the invention. The combinationof this further principle with the three aspects is especially preferredsince the three aspects all show ways of having the tool reach into theanchoring element or through the anchoring element during anchoring(instead of just having it impinge on a proximal face of the anchoringelement). Also, the three aspects of the invention (and combinationsthereof) show, as discussed, ways of affixing the anchoring element toespecially brittle or weak construction material objects such asplasterboards, boards of cardboard etc., and they are especially suitedfor embodiments where the anchoring element as a whole remains “below”(distal of) a surface of the construction material object. In suchembodiments, the tool/fastener may, after anchoring, optionally protrudeabove said surface.

Preferred embodiments of any one of the three aspects may comprise theadditional feature of automatically applying, by means of a springelement or an other suitable mechanism, the force acting on theanchoring element during anchoring. For example, the spring element maybe arranged so as to exert a well-defined spring force between theanchoring element and a counter element (retaining element). Thisfeatures the advantage, that the force necessary for successfulanchoring can be pre-defined, and success of the anchoring process doesnot only depend on the skills professional applying the method, and theprofessional does not need to use force—if many anchoring elements areplaced, the method is less exhausting. The variant with the springelement causing the acting force is especially advantageous incombination with the second aspect of the invention, since a spring canbe placed between a construction material object surface (or a counterelement placed in contact with the object surface) and a proximalportion of the tool or an object connected to the proximal end of thetool, so that the tool is, by the spring force, drawn towards theproximal side, and both, the force and the positions of the tool beforeand after anchoring may be pre-defined.

In embodiments that feature automatically applying the acting force, aswell as in other embodiments where the force is applied manually, theremay optionally be a stop defining the travel of the tool duringanchoring.

Subjects of the invention are also sets of items for carrying out themethod according to one of the three aspects of the invention. Such aset includes at least one tool (e.g. sonotrode) as well as one oradvantageously a plurality of anchoring elements. In addition, the setmay include a device for generating the mechanical vibrations,instructions for the anchoring, a counter-element, a separate elementwith an oblique surface area as discussed above and/or further items.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following, embodiments of the invention are described inconnection with the following Figs., wherein same reference numerals areused for same or equivalent elements. Therein:

FIGS. 1 a and 1 b illustrate a first embodiment of the inventionaccording to its first aspect;

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b show a sectional view of the embodiment according to

FIGS. 1 a and 1 b in a bore in the object to illustrate its function;

FIGS. 3 a to 3 c are sectional views of further embodiments of theinvention according to its first aspect;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the embodiment according to FIG. 3 a in aconfiguration which also corresponds with the second aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a further embodiment of an anchoringelement in a bore in the object;

FIG. 5 a is a sectional view of an even further embodiment of ananchoring element in a bore in the object;

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a further embodiment of the inventionaccording to its first aspect;

FIG. 7 illustrates the functional characteristics of a further group ofembodiments;

FIGS. 8 a and 8 b show a further embodiment of the invention accordingto its first aspect;

FIG. 9 shows a further embodiment of the invention according to itsfirst aspect;

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the invention according to its firstaspect, wherein the anchoring element comprises a non-liquefiable core;

FIG. 11 shows a further embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 12 a to 12 d illustrate the principle of a device and of a methodaccording to the second aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 13, 14 a, 14 b show further embodiments according to the secondaspect of the invention;

FIGS. 15 and 16 show embodiments of a combination of the second aspectand the third aspect of the invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a further embodiment according to the third aspectof the invention;

FIG. 17 a shows the embodiment of FIG. 17 after the anchoring process;

FIG. 18 illustrates the principle of a distal counter-element;

FIG. 19 shows a coupling suitable for transmission of a pulling force;

FIG. 20 shows a principle of applying a counter-force by means of aspring;

FIG. 21 illustrates yet a further variant of an anchoring element andmethod according to the first aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 22 a and 22 b show yet an other embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 23 a and 23 b show a further embodiment of the third aspect of theinvention;

FIGS. 24 a and 24 b show yet an other embodiment of the third aspect ofthe invention;

FIG. 25 shows a variant of the embodiment of FIGS. 24 a and 24 b;

FIGS. 26 a and 26 b illustrate a method of fastening a fastener to aboard by a combination of the first and second aspect of the invention;

FIG. 27 shows a method of fastening a fastener to a board by acombination of the second and third aspect of the invention; and

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate two variants of a further use of the thirdaspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The anchoring element 1 according to FIG. 1 a is a first example of ananchoring element according to the first aspect of the invention whichis suitable as a coupling sleeve for attaching a fitting on the object.The anchoring element is essentially tubular, consists of athermoplastic material, and comprises a proximal end face 1.1 and adistal end face 1.2. The anchoring element further comprises at leastone slot 12 extending approximately parallel to the axis 11 of theanchoring element; advantageously there are two, three or more thanthree slots arranged approximately equidistantly. Due to the slot orslots 12 the anchoring element is compressible by a compressing force 4acting parallel to its axis (according to FIG. 1 a, the axis 11 of thetubular anchoring element is also its compression axis). The anchoringelement is depicted in a compressed state in FIG. 1 b.

It is obvious that for achieving the desired compression a force mustact upon the anchoring element from two opposite sides (“force andcounterforce”), wherein the counterforce is often exerted by a stopface. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 a and 1 b compressingforces are exerted upon the proximal end face 1.1 and the distal endface 1.2. In the following description however, a force is illustratedonly where a tool is in action. To the expert, it is obvious that acounterforce must exist in order to achieve the desired effect.

According to the invention, the anchoring element is designed such thatits compression results in a local enlargement of the distance betweenthe peripheral surface of the anchoring element and the compression axis11, here, a local enlargement of the exterior cross-sectionperpendicular to the compression axis 11. The enlargement can occuranywhere between the proximal end face 1.1 and the distal end face 1.2.In the example according to FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, the enlargement is, dueto the symmetry of the anchoring element, greatest in the middle betweenthe end faces. In FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, the diameter of the outer crosssection—this also incorporates the cavity within the anchoringelement—is indicated at the point of the largest cross section by c inthe non-compressed condition, by c′ in the compressed condition. Throughthe compression the slots 12 become wider.

For anchoring the anchoring element 1 is placed in a bore 21.1 in theobject 21. As illustrated in FIG. 2 a this bore can be a blind bore.Alternatively, the bore is tunnel-shaped, i.e. reaches through theobject (for more detail see further below). In particular the bore canbe of a cylindrical shape, which is easy to make. The diameter of thebore is at least equal to the diameter c of the original outer crosssection and may be slightly larger, as shown in FIG. 2 a.

When the anchoring element is positioned in the bore 21.1, a force 4 isexerted along its compression axis 11 and mechanical vibrations 5 arecoupled into the anchoring element while the force 4 is active. This isachieved with the aid of a tool 3 comprising a coupling-out face 3.1,which collaborates with a coupling-in face of the anchoring element. Inthe illustrated example, the coupling-in face corresponds with and isidentical with the proximal end face 1.1. The coupling-out face 3.1 cancompletely cover the coupling-in face and the interior cavity of theanchoring element 1, as shown, but it can also be ring-shaped andexactly adapted to the proximal end face 1.1. The tool 3 is effectivelyconnected on its proximal side 3.2 with a vibratory device (not shown).Such devices are generally known and have been referred to e.g. inWO02/069817.

FIG. 2 b shows the anchoring element 1 after application of thecompressing force and the vibrations. Due to the compressing force 4 thecross-section of the anchoring element is enlarged, as illustrated inFIG. 1 b. As soon as the anchoring element engages in areas of thecross-section enlargement with the lateral wall of the bore, thecompressing force 4 produces a pressure upon the lateral walls. There,the vibrations cause friction and the thermoplastic material is locallyliquefied and pressed into pores or other cavities in the material ofthe object. This effect is indicated by horizontal arrows in FIG. 2 b.Of course, the same also occurs in the area of the distal end face ofthe anchoring element.

Once a predetermined compression is achieved, the vibrations areswitched off and/or the tool 3 is removed. The liquefied thermoplasticmaterial re-solidifies and creates an anchoring of the anchoring element1 through a form-fit connection with the structures of the lateral wall.

The method of anchoring the anchoring element with the aid ofthermoplastic material which is liquefied and in the liquefied statepenetrates into cavities (pores, other cavities of small dimensions whencompared with the bore provided in the object for the anchoringelement), which method is illustrated in FIG. 2 b, is shared by all theembodiments of the invention. In each following FIG. this effect isillustrated by arrows indicating the direction in which thethermoplastic material penetrates into the cavities.

Preferably but not necessarily, as in all embodiments according to thefirst aspect of the invention, the thermoplastic material of theanchoring element is heated during the anchoring procedure to such anextent that it is free of tension after the anchoring procedure, i.e. noforce counteracting the deformation of the anchoring element remains. Inthis case, the compressing force and the mechanical vibrations can bestopped simultaneously as the anchoring element does not relax neitherbefore nor after re-solidification.

The anchoring element 1 according to FIG. 3 a comprises a plurality ofcomponents. The illustrated example consists of three components 1.11,1.12, 1.13, which are approximately rotationally symmetrical with regardto any rotation angle around its axis, which also corresponds with thecompression axis 11. The first component 1.11 (seen from the distalside) has essentially the shape of a truncated cone and comprises anaxial bore through it. The second component 1.12 has essentially theshape of a hat, here with a central axial bore. The hat-like designdefines an interior surface 1.12 a and an exterior surface 1.12 b. Thethird component 1.13 has the shape of a cylinder and comprises a coaxialconical cavity and an axial bore. The central bores of the first, secondand third component are coaxial to each other and of approximately thesame diameter.

If applicable and deviating from the rotational symmetry, at least thecentral component 1.12, but possibly also the third component 1.13 andthe first component 1.11, are advantageously slotted, which is not shownin FIG. 3 a. Because of the slot(s) the relevant components are easilyspreadable and the anchoring element as a whole can be compressed alongthe compression axis by a relatively moderate compressing force. As thecompressing force 4 is applied the components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13 areshifted relative to each other along surfaces extending obliquely (i.e.at an angle neither parallel nor perpendicular) to the compressingforce. In the illustrated embodiment the named surfaces have the form oftruncated cone shells, i.e. they are conical. There are other surfacesalso which have a spreading effect.

In the illustrated embodiment the opening angle of the exterior surface1.11 a of the first component 1.11 is larger than the opening angle ofthe interior surface 1.12 a of the second component 1.12 and the openingangle of the exterior surface 1.12 b of the second component 1.12 islarger than the opening angle of the interior surface 1.13 a of thethird component. Advantageous for the spreading effect in the presentconfiguration is that at least one opening angle of an exterior surfaceis greater than the opening angle of an interior surface, into which theexterior surface reaches.

When the anchoring element is positioned in the bore—the diameter of thebore approximately corresponds with the outer diameter of the anchoringelement components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13 before compression—and when thecompressing force and mechanical vibrations are applied, the followingtakes place:

-   -   Due to the compressing force the second and the third component        1.12, 1.13 are spread, resulting in an enlargement of the outer        cross sectional area of the second and third component and thus        of the whole anchoring element.    -   Due to the spreading, outer surfaces of the second and third        component 1.12, 1.13 are pressed against the lateral wall of the        bore. Due to the mechanical vibrations the thermoplastic        material liquefies in these surface areas and interpenetrates        the pores (or other cavities) in the material of the object 21.    -   The vibrations also result in frictional forces between the        surfaces 1.11 a, 1.12 a, 1.12 b, 1.13 a which cause the        thermoplastic material to liquefy, which in turn results in the        first, second and third components being welded together.

The proximal end face 1.1 or alternatively, the distal end face 1.2 ofthe anchoring element according to FIG. 3 a can serve as a coupling-inface. The proximal and the distal side of the anchoring element can beexchanged (i.e. the anchoring element can be used “back to front”).

FIG. 3 b shows a further embodiment of the anchoring element accordingto the invention, which anchoring element is, regarding compression andanchoring, very similar to the embodiment according to FIG. 3 a. Sameelements are designated with same reference numerals. The anchoringelement is a multi-part anchoring element and consists of any chosennumber (e.g. three as shown) of identical components, all designed forbeing spread (e.g. hollow cones or hollow wedges) and loosely positionedinside one another. The compressing force 4 pushes the spreadablecomponents together and spreads them. If need be, the distal end portionof a tool to be used is designed as a spreading element, as illustratedin FIG. 11. In the embodiment according to FIG. 3 b, all surfacesoblique to the compression axis, along which the anchoring elementcomponents are shifted in relation to each other, may be parallel(identical opening angles), as illustrated in FIG. 11. This has theadvantage that the size of the anchoring element can be determined bythe chosen number of identical components.

The embodiment according to FIG. 3 c is based on the embodimentaccording to FIG. 3 a. Unlike that embodiment however, the anchoringelement consists of a plurality of modules (illustrated: two modules)each of which comprises at least one component 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.14(illustrated: two components per module). There is a spacer element 61between the modules, e.g. a metallic ring as illustrated, which does notneed to be of thermoplastic material. This embodiment is suitable forbeing anchored at two or more locations in a lateral wall of the bore inthe object. The distance between these locations is determined by thespacer element. Such anchoring element embodiments comprising twomodules are advantageously used in combination with a tool 3 orcounter-element 31, whose function is discussed in more detail below. Asshown in FIG. 3 c, the tool or counter-element 3; 31 comprises a shaftpenetrating a central recess of the anchoring element. Other guidingmeans for guiding the spacer element are conceivable.

In addition to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 a, 3 b and 3 c thefollowing embodiments (besides many others) are conceivable:

-   -   Each component may comprise a non-liquefiable core, the core of        the second and third component being elastically or plastically        deformable. The core, which e.g. consists of metal or a metal        alloy, may constitute a substantial part of the cross-section        and form the load-bearing part of the anchoring element.    -   The first component 1.11 does not necessarily need to comprise        thermoplastic material.    -   The first component may be removable after anchoring (in which        case it is not part of the anchoring element but e.g. part of        the tool or a separate element).    -   An equivalent embodiment comprises instead of three components        only two components (e.g. no central component 1.12) or four or        more than four components (e.g. further hat-shaped components        similar to the central component 1.12).    -   The shapes of the components may be varied, wherein it is        necessary to provide some surfaces oblique to the compression        axis, along which surfaces the components can be shifted        relative to each other.    -   The components do not need to be approximately rotationally        symmetrical. The central bore may be omitted.    -   The components may be linked prior to the anchoring via        predetermined breaking points, which will be discussed in more        detail below.    -   The components do not need to be hat-shaped and able to be        spread, but may be laterally displaceable relative to each        other, which is also described in more detail below.    -   For a selective liquefaction of thermoplastic material in a        desired location, at least one energy director may be provided        along the periphery of at least one component.    -   The embodiments according to FIGS. 3 a to 3 c, the same as the        embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention as        described below, may comprise a ductile core of a material,        which, under anchoring conditions, is non-liquefiable. At least        the anchoring elements with components which have the shape of        hats or hollow wedges can e.g. be made of sheet metal which is        slotted and coated with thermoplastic material, wherein the        metal sheet may protrude radially from the anchoring element        component. During compression the metal sheet is spread and cuts        e.g. into the object through the lateral wall of the bore. The        anchoring element may be additionally furnished with elements        acting like barbs. The cutting effect of the metal sheet        provides an additional anchoring.    -   Any chosen combinations of the named embodiments are possible.

In FIG. 4 the anchoring element 1 according to FIG. 3 is shown in aconfiguration corresponding with the second aspect of the invention. Inthis configuration no force is exerted on the object on the bottom ofthe bore. The vibrations and the compressing force acting upon theanchoring element are coupled into the anchoring element from a tool 3which is under tensile force. The configuration according to FIG. 4 istherefore also suitable for applications in bores leading tunnel-likethrough the object.

The tool 3—as it serves among other things to couple vibrations from avibratory device (not illustrated) into the anchoring element, can alsobe called a “sonotrode”—and comprises a shaft 3.4 and a base plate 3.5.The coupling-out face 3.1 of the tool is the surface of the base plate3.5 facing towards the proximal tool side. The shaft 3.4 extends throughthe central bore of the anchoring element components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13and protrudes from the proximal end of the anchoring element and fromthe bore in the object. The proximal tool end is designed for beingcoupled to a vibratory device, which coupling is to be suitable fortransmitting a tensile force.

During the anchoring procedure a tensile force is applied to the tool 3(force 4) and mechanical vibrations 5 are coupled into it. From thetool, force 4—as compressing force—and the mechanical vibrations arecoupled into the anchoring element. A counter-element 31 prevents theanchoring element from simply moving out of the bore in the object. Inthe illustrated example, the counter-element 31 is designed as a plate.

Following the anchoring procedure, the tool 3 can be dealt with invarious ways:

-   -   The tool can remain in the place of the anchoring. This        embodiment is particularly advantageous when the tool is        designed for a further function. Thus the tool can serve e.g.        for attaching a further element on the anchoring element.    -   If the bore in the object is a through-going bore, the tool can        be separated from the vibratory device and be removed from the        distal side of the anchoring element.    -   The tool can be removed from the proximal side. In this case the        tool and the through-going recess in the anchoring element,        through which the shaft 3.4 extends during the anchoring        procedure, must not be of a round cross section (no rotational        symmetrical with regard to random rotation angles).        Corresponding openings in the anchoring element will be        discussed in more detail below.

Like the anchoring elements according to FIGS. 1 and 3, the anchoringelements according to FIGS. 5 to 10 are designed according to the firstaspect of the invention and can be used together with a suitable tool ina configuration according to the second aspect of the invention.

The anchoring element 1 according to FIG. 5 comprises, like the oneaccording to FIG. 3, a plurality of components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13, whichare designed for being shifted relative to each other along surfacesthat extend obliquely (i.e. at an angle or neither parallel norperpendicular) to the compressing force. The components can be designedjust like the anchoring element components—in particular the secondand/or third component—of the embodiment according to FIG. 3 and itsvariants and are therefore not described in detail again. In contrast tothe embodiment according to FIG. 3, a separate spreading element 32 isused, wherein the spreading element does not need to comprisethermoplastic material. As illustrated, the spreading element is placedon the bottom of the bore in the object 21 before the anchoring elementis introduced. The spreading element comprises at least one shiftingsurface 32.1, which is oblique relative to the compression axis andforms an angle with the latter which is greater than the opening angleof the corresponding interior surface 1.13 a of the anchoring element.The components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13 are spread by the compressing force 4due to the effect of the spreading element and in the area of theircircumference are pressed against the lateral wall of the bore in theobject. During the anchoring procedure the spreading element can bewelded to the components 1.11, 1.12, 1.13 comprising thermoplasticmaterial, thus becoming part of the anchoring element. Depending on thesurface properties the spreading element may also remain separate. Inthe illustrated configuration the spreading element remains in the borein the object where it may or may not have another function. In otherconfigurations it may be removable from the bore.

The spreading element—whether or not it comprises material liquefiableduring the anchoring process—may optionally be configured to beconnected to the anchoring element 1—and to become part of it—duringanchoring, for example by welding and/or by other means of forming aconnection.

The following embodiments are conceivable in addition to the previouslydescribed embodiments:

-   -   Instead of three components there may be a single component, two        components or four or more components, comprising thermoplastic        material at least in a peripheral region.    -   The anchoring element may also be placed the other way round,        provided that the spreading element is correspondingly adapted.    -   Combinations with the variants as described in connection with        the embodiment of FIG. 3 are possible.

FIG. 5 a shows a variant of the embodiment of FIG. 5. It differs in thatthe spreading element 1.12—being a second part of the anchoringelement—is made of thermoplastics and is welded together with the firstanchoring element part 1.11 during the anchoring process. The firstanchoring element part 1.11 comprises two legs 1.21, 1.22 that arespread apart by the spreading element 1.12.

The depicted first anchoring element part 1.11 further comprises, at itsproximal end, a thermoplastic anchoring element head with a larger crosssection than a main portion of the anchoring element.

Of course, also combinations of the approaches of FIGS. 5 and 5 a arepossible, for example a first anchoring element part with two legs 1.21,1.22 to be spread apart may be combined with a spreading element of notthermoplastic material, or a spreading element 1.12 of thermoplasticmaterial may be combined with a first anchoring element part with aslitted hat-like distal end portion etc.

FIG. 6 shows yet another variant of the embodiment according to FIG. 5.This differs from the latter by not comprising a separate (spreading)element with a surface section oblique to the compression axis. Instead,spreading is achieved by the shape of the anchoring element 1 and by theanchoring element being pushed against an e.g. level surfaceperpendicular to the compression axis, which may be the bottom of thebore in the object as illustrated, or the surface of a separate element.In the illustrated example the anchoring element is hat-shaped and thecompressing force 4 squeezes the edges outwards, thus pressing themagainst the lateral walls of the bore. Advantageously the hat-shapedanchoring element comprises a slot or a plurality of slots as describedfurther above. Variants with other spreadable shapes (e.g. hollow wedge)are also conceivable.

FIG. 6 moreover illustrates, that the tool 3 can be of a specific shapeadapted to the coupling-in face 1.1—here, at least on the distal side,tubular. Such a specific shape enables an energy-efficient coupling ofmechanical vibrations into the anchoring element.

The embodiment of the anchoring element 1 according to FIG. 7 comprisestwo components. A first proximal component 1.11 is connected to thesecond distal component 1.12 by connecting fins 1.21, which are thincompared to the dimensions of the anchoring element. During compressionof the anchoring element the fins 1.21 break or melt, i.e. theyrepresent predetermined breaking or melting points. The first component1.11 and the second component 1.12 are wedge-shaped, each comprising aramp 1.11 a and 1.12 a which ramps slide sideways along each other whenthe components are pressed against each other by a compressing forceacting along the compression axis 11.

After disintegration of the connecting fins 1.21, the anchoring elementcomponents 1.11, 1.12 are shifted relative to each other under theinfluence of the compressing force. The embodiment according to FIG. 7is therefore a further example of an anchoring element comprising aplurality of components 1.11, 1.12, movable relative to each other alongsurfaces (i.e. ramps) extending obliquely to the compression force. Inthis embodiment too, an outer diameter of the anchoring element isenlarged by the lateral shift caused by the compressing force.

Connections like the connecting fins 1.21 serving as predeterminedbreaking or melting points can, as already mentioned, also be applied inthe multi-part embodiments discussed further above.

The design of the shifting surfaces oblique to the compression axis 11as ramps—with or without connections between the components—may also becombined with the characteristics of the embodiments of FIGS. 3 and 5.

In particular, one of the anchoring element components may be replacedby a separate element which does not need to comprise thermoplasticmaterial and functions in an analogous manner as the spreading elementaccording to FIG. 5.

Alternatively to the illustrated embodiment, an anchoring elementaccording to FIG. 7 can also be designed to be thermoplastic andessentially cylindrical (e.g. circular cylinder) with horizontal (i.e.perpendicular to the cylinder axis) or oblique incisions, which do notreach right through the anchoring element but leave areas of a reducedcross section. These serve as predetermined breaking or melting points.Such an embodiment may be advantageous with regard to production.

FIG. 8 a shows a further embodiment of an anchoring element 1 accordingto the invention. In this embodiment, as opposed to the previouslydescribed embodiments, the local enlargement of the distance between aperipheral surface and the compression axis is not necessarily due to anenlargement of the exterior cross sectional area. In this and othersimilar examples however, at least the projection of the exteriorsurface along the compression axis is enlarged.

The anchoring element is essentially pin-shaped, but comprises lateralincisions 14, 15 and corresponding contractions 1.4, 1.5. Duringanchoring, these contractions function as predetermined melting points.As they melt or at least soften due to the effect of the mechanicalvibrations, the compressing force tilts the anchoring element sectionsbetween the contractions towards each other, thus effecting the localenlargement of the distance between the peripheral anchoring elementsurface and the compression axis, as shown in FIG. 8 b, whichillustrates schematically the shape of the anchoring element afteranchoring. The regions being pressed against the lateral walls of thebore in the object are indicated by horizontal arrows.

Alternatively, the anchoring element may comprise just one contraction14, or two contractions (or possibly more than two contractions) withdiffering cross-sections. In particular the anchoring element maycomprise a wider contraction closer to the coupling-in face. This canresult in the contraction further removed from the coupling-in faceliquefying before the contraction closer to the coupling-in face and mayprevent the contraction closer to the coupling-in face from meltingbefore the other contraction, which would inhibit further transmissionof mechanical vibrations to this other contraction.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of an anchoring element 1 according to theinvention designed in the manner of an accordion, wherein portions 1.31linked by hinges 1.32 are moved into a steeper position in relation tothe compression axis 11 under the influence of the compressing force 4.Thereby the outer cross-section of the anchoring element is enlargedlocally. In the illustrated embodiment the whole anchoring element 1 isa single unit, so that the hinges 1.32 are created simply by the shapeof the anchoring element body; the use of other hinging means ispossible. In certain circumstances measures can be taken to enablemechanical vibrations to be transmitted to the areas further removedfrom the coupling-in face. Such measures are e.g. the provision of anon-liquefiable core of superior rigidity compared to the thermoplasticmaterial.

Such a core is shown in FIG. 10 in an embodiment similar to the one ofFIG. 3. Elements equivalent to the corresponding elements of theembodiment according to FIG. 3 are not again described in detail. Thecore comprises two core components 41, 42, which are moveable againsteach other. The first core component 42 comprises in the illustratedembodiment a base plate 42.2 and an adjoining sheath-like section 42.1.The exterior or interior surface of the base plate 42.2 can serve as acoupling-in face for the mechanical vibrations. The second corecomponent 41 is here designed as a sheath moveable inside thesheath-like section 42.1 of the first core component. While theanchoring element is compressed one core component slides inside theother.

Alternatively to the two-part core, one-piece cores or multi-part coresare also possible. A one-piece core does not extend across the entirelength (relating to the compression axis 11) of the anchoring element,because that would render a compression of the anchoring elementimpossible.

FIG. 11 shows a configuration with a compressible anchoring element 1according to the invention of the kind described in connection with FIG.5. In contrast to the latter, there is no separate spreading element butthe tool 3 comprises a wedge- or ramp-like coupling-out face 3.1 that isformed by a distal end portion 3.7 being larger in diameter than a shaftportion 3.4. The wedge- or ramp-like coupling-out face 3.1 serves tocouple mechanical vibrations and the compressing force into theanchoring element as well as to spread the anchoring element.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 11, moreover, the principle ofthe tool 3 under tensile force is applied. The configuration accordingto FIG. 11 is therefore also suitable for use in bores with a bottomwhich is not suitable to be loaded or in a through-going bore (tunnel)as illustrated in FIG. 11.

The principle of coupling a force into the anchoring element which putsthe tool under tensile loading corresponds with the second aspect of theinvention. This principle can also be applied in connection withanchoring elements which are not compressed by the named force. Suchconfigurations are described in connection with the following FIGS. 12to 16.

FIGS. 12 a and 12 b show, in section and viewed from the top, an object21 comprising a slot-shaped (not round) bore 21.1 reaching tunnel-likefrom one surface to the opposite one. FIG. 12 a also shows a tool 3 witha shaft 3.4 and a reach-out portion. In the illustrated embodiment thereach-out portion is a traverse 3.6 oriented perpendicular to the shaft.Two anchoring elements of thermoplastic material—possibly with a solidnon-thermoplastic core—are fixed to the traverse 3.6 in a reversiblemanner.

As illustrated in FIG. 12 a the tool 3 with the anchoring elementsattached thereto is moved in a first step from a proximal side of theobject through the bore until the anchoring elements 1 are completelyoutside the object (i.e. on the distal side of the object).Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 12 c, the tool is rotated around an axisdefined by its shaft 3.4, e.g. by 90°. Then, as in the previouslydescribed embodiments, a force is coupled into the anchoring elementspressing the thermoplastic material of the anchoring elements againstthe object. This is achieved by pulling the tool backwards, therebypressing the anchoring elements against the rear side of the object.While the force is acting upon the anchoring elements, mechanicalvibrations are coupled into the anchoring element via the coupling-outface 3.1 of the tool, which is here provided by the proximal surfaces ofthe traverse upon which the anchoring elements are fixed. This causesthe thermoplastic material of the anchoring elements to partly liquefyand to be pressed into the object. After stopping the mechanicalvibrations, the thermoplastic material re-solidifies and forms aform-fit connection with the object.

As shown in FIG. 12 d the tool is subsequently removed by being detachedfrom the anchoring elements now anchored in the object by a gentle push.Then it is turned back into the orientation in which the reach-outsection fits through the bore 21.1 and retracted. Alternatively to theillustrated embodiment, it is also possible that the tool is left in theobject after anchoring and there e.g. assumes another function. It isalso possible to remove just a part of the tool, e.g. the shaft, whileanother part, e.g. the reach-out portion, remains and assumes a furtherfunction. In such a case the tool is not a single unit but shaft andreach-out portion are attached to each other in a reversible manner,e.g. by being screwed together.

The embodiment of the invention, shown in FIGS. 12 a to 12 d, is alsosuitable for connecting from “behind”, i.e. from a side not easilyaccessible, two pieces to form an object, wherein the two pieces, priorto the anchoring, are completely separated from each other or connectedonly by a weak link. In such a case the tool is not introduced through abore as illustrated in FIG. 1 b but through the gap between the twopieces. The reach-out portion of the tool remains in place after theanchoring and serves as a bridge connecting the two pieces of the objectin a rigid manner.

In the illustrated embodiment no openings are provided in the object forpositioning the anchoring elements prior to the application of themechanical vibrations. The bore 21.1 in the object merely serves forpositioning the tool. The anchoring elements are driven into the objectby a force exerted upon them, wherein an anchoring element tip and/oraxially extending cutting edges, advantageously not consisting of theliquefiable material, support penetration of the anchoring element intothe object.

The force for driving the anchoring elements into the material of theobject (e.g. wood or similar material) can e.g. be applied before themechanical vibrations. Alternatively to the illustrated configuration,it is also possible to provide openings in the object, wherein thediameter of these openings may be smaller than the diameter of theanchoring elements.

The following variants are possible:

-   -   Instead of with two anchoring elements as illustrated, the        method can also be performed with just a single anchoring        element or with more than two anchoring elements.    -   The reach-out portion of the tool can have any shape optimized        for its function as well as for the transmission of vibrations        and force.    -   Depending on circumstances the tool with the anchoring elements        can be introduced from behind (i.e. from the distal side) so        that only the shaft has to be moved through the bore.

FIG. 13 shows a further embodiment of the invention. A through-goingbore having a constant cross section (e.g. a through-bore with a roundcross section) is provided in the object 21. An anchoring element 1tapering from the distal side to the proximal side is introduced frombehind, i.e. from the distal side into the bore. The anchoring elementis drawn into the bore with the aid of the tool 3, which engages theproximal side of the anchoring element, wherein a tensile force acts onthe tool (the tool is under tensile loading). While the tensile force iskept active the mechanical vibrations are coupled into the anchoringelement. The vibrations and the slightly tapering shape of the anchoringelement cause the thermoplastic material in the area of thecircumferential surface of the anchoring element to be liquefied and tobe pressed into pores or other cavities on the lateral walls of the borein the object.

In this embodiment, where tensile forces not only impinge on the toolbut also on the anchoring element, it is necessary to connect the tooland the anchoring element rigidly, as described in more detail below.

As an—often less preferred—variant, the bore may taper toward theproximal side while the anchoring element is (rotationally) cylindrical.

As a further variant the bore in the object can be stepped, wherein itis wider on the distal side than on the proximal side. The correspondinganchoring element may comprise a shoulder engaging the step of the boreduring the anchoring procedure. Further embodiments of anchoringelements, which can be anchored by means of a pulling force, areconceivable.

FIG. 14 a shows a configuration with a slightly conical anchoringelement 1 being moved, like the anchoring element according to FIG. 13,with the aid of a tool 3 along an axis of the bore in the object,wherein the force to be coupled into the anchoring element puts the toolunder tensile loading, i.e. the force acting on the anchoring element isdirected against the oscillation generator. However, in contrast to theconfiguration according to FIG. 13 the force upon the anchoring element1 is a pressure force (i.e. pushing force). To this end the anchoringelement comprises a central bore 1.9, which in the illustratedconfiguration extends parallel to the axis of the bore in the objectduring the anchoring procedure. A tool shaft 3.4 carrying a base plate3.5 extends through the bore 1.9. The force to be coupled into theanchoring element as well as the mechanical vibrations are transmittedfrom the tool to the anchoring element via the base plate, the same asshown in FIG. 4. After the anchoring there are three ways of dealingwith the tool.

Firstly, provided the bore in the object is a through-going bore, thetool is separated from the oscillation generator and removed towards thedistal side. Secondly, the tool is also separated from the oscillationgenerator and remains with the anchoring element, where it fulfils apredetermined function, e.g. serves for attaching a further item.Thirdly, the tool is dismantled after the anchoring, e.g. the shaft 3.4is separated from the base plate 3.5.

The following variants are conceivable:

-   -   The cross-sections of the bore in the object and of the        anchoring element are not circular.    -   The tool is removable as a whole toward the proximal side if the        cross-sections of the recess 1.9 and of the base plate 3.5 are        not circular and the base plate 3.5 is able to be moved through        the recess 1.9 in one specific rotational position.    -   The anchoring element is not necessarily conical. Thus e.g. the        bore in the object can get narrower toward the proximal side.        While providing such a bore is generally difficult, there may        still be cases in which this is favored by other circumstances.    -   It is also possible that the anchoring element as well as the        bore in the object are e.g. cylindrical, i.e. their        cross-sections remain constant along their axes. Then the        cross-section of the anchoring element would be slightly larger        than that of the bore in the object, so that the anchoring        element is held in the bore by a press-fit. The frictional force        may be strong enough to act as counter force to the force        coupled into the anchoring element by the tool. Alternatively a        counter-element can be used in this embodiment.

A further embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 14 b. The anchoring element1 has a shoulder 1.10 being pressed against an equivalent shoulder ofthe object during anchoring. In the illustrated case, the mouth of thebore forms the shoulder of the object, however it could also be designedas stepped or as another widening of the bore. FIG. 14 b is a furtherexample of an embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, in whichthe anchoring does not necessarily occur in the lateral walls of thebore.

The following FIGS. 15 to 17 show embodiments according to the thirdaspect of the invention. The configurations in the examples according toFIGS. 15 and 16 correspond also with the second aspect of the invention.

In the configuration according to FIG. 15 a through-going or blind boreis provided in the object 21 in which the anchoring element isintroduced prior to the anchoring. The anchoring element 1 comprises athrough-going or blind recess. The tool 3 comprises a shaft 3.4 and awedge 3.7 tapering from the distal to the proximal side, where it isattached to the shaft. During anchoring a pulling force 4 causes thewedge to be drawn through the recess of the anchoring element 1 therebyexpanding the latter. Thus, a peripheral area of the anchoring elementis pressed against a lateral wall of the bore in the object. Themechanical vibrations being coupled simultaneously into the anchoringelement cause the thermoplastic material to liquefy where it is incontact with the object and to be pressed into cavities in the object.Advantageously the mechanical vibrations also cause the thermoplasticmaterial to at least soften between the recess and the peripheral area.This softening leaves the anchoring element free of tension after theremoval of the tool, thus preventing forces directed radially inwardsacting on peripheral areas anchored in the object.

While the pulling force is exerted upon the tool a counter-element 31prevents the anchoring element from being drawn out of the bore. In theillustrated example the anchoring element 1 comprises peripheral, herepointed energy directors 1.8, which assist liquefaction of theliquefiable material. Energy directors can also be provided on anchoringelements according to other embodiments of the invention described inthis document.

FIG. 16 shows an embodiment similar to the one of FIG. 15, wherein thetool is of a different shape. Instead of a wedge the distal end portionof the tool is e.g. fashioned like a spherical swelling 3.7. Duringanchoring this distal end portion is drawn through the anchoring elementwhile the thermoplastic material is liquefied and causes anadvantageously plastic expansion of the anchoring element as in theexample according to FIG. 15.

Alternatively, the tool may comprise instead of a shaft 3.4 a anon-rigid element, e.g. a thread or a cable for pulling the distal endportion through the anchoring element. The distal end portion may againbe spherical like in FIG. 16.

Further alternatives are conceivable:

-   -   A thickened distal end portion 3.7 of the tool can have many        different shapes; the largest cross-section of the distal end        portion must always be larger than the smallest cross-section of        the recess in the anchoring element and smaller than the        cross-section of the bore in the object.    -   The recess of the anchoring element 1 does not need to be        through-going; moreover the tool can already be positioned in        the recess designed as a blind hole prior to the anchoring        procedure and is then moved within or withdrawn from this recess        during the anchoring procedure. The advantage of such a        configuration is the fact that the appropriate tool can be sold        and stored together with the anchoring element and the tool can        also assist in positioning of the anchoring element.    -   The bore in the object can either be through-going or blind.    -   A further object to be fixed to the object during the anchoring        process may be placed between the tool and the anchoring element        or between the anchoring element and a lateral wall of the bore        in the object. This also applies to the other embodiments        according to the third or first aspect of the invention.

FIG. 17 shows a further embodiment according to the third aspect of theinvention, wherein the force for expanding the anchoring element duringthe anchoring acts as compression load on the tool. While the distal endportion 3.7 of the anchoring element in embodiments like the onesaccording to FIGS. 15 and 16 must comprise a component with a growingcross-section from the proximal to the distal side, in embodiments likethe one according to FIG. 17, in which the tool is under compressionload, a distal end portion with a growing cross-section from the distalto the proximal side is advantageous. In the illustrated example thedistal end portion of the tool is designed like this.

For embodiments in which the force expanding the anchoring element actson the tool as compression load, the tool does not need to comprise athickening of its distal end portion in order to taper toward theproximal side. It can be e.g. cylindrical, possibly even tapering towardthe distal side.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17 the anchoring element is shapedlike a cup and rests upon the bottom of the bore in the object. Theanchoring element can also be tubular or of another shape comprising arecess.

In the embodiment of FIG. 17, the tool 3 can be shaped so that it can beremoved after anchoring, for example if it narrows towards the distalside. As an alternative, the tool can be shaped so that it comprises aretaining structure (in the depicted embodiment formed by the shownshoulder) and itself serves as an anchoring element after the anchoringprocess. FIG. 17 a depicts the tool 3 as comprising a threading 3.21designed to co-operate with a threading of a further element 91, that inthe figure is schematically depicted to be a screw nut for affixing aplate 92 to the construction object 21.

The tool of the embodiment according to FIG. 11 has, in addition to theeffect of compressing the anchoring element, to some extent an expandingeffect. The configuration according to FIG. 11 therefore correspondswith the first and the second aspect as well as with the third aspect ofthe invention.

Anchoring elements according to the third aspect of the invention areadvantageously made entirely of the thermoplastic material.Non-thermoplastic components may be provided, e.g. at the base of acup-shaped anchoring element, at the periphery of an area where noexpansion is desired, or as a reinforcing element designed and situatednot to obstruct the expansion. In the case of a tube- or cup-shapedanchoring element such reinforcements can e.g. be of an elongated shapeand extend spread out on the circumferential surface of the anchoringelement in axial direction.

In all embodiments according to the first and the third aspect of theinvention, the opening (if present) in the anchoring element does notneed to be central. A corresponding asymmetrical configuration can beused in order to specifically liquefy or plastify the thermoplasticmaterial on one side of the anchoring element earlier than on theopposite side, or it may be intended that the thermoplastic materialonly liquefies or plastifies on one side.

-   -   Also in cases, where the tool is under compression load, a        counter-element 31 can be applied. Such an element acts on the        distal side of the anchoring element and is e.g. held by a shaft        extending centrally through the tool, as illustrated in FIG. 18        which shows an example according to the first aspect of the        invention. In such cases it is not necessary for embodiments        according to the first aspect of the invention that the tool 3        is moved when force 4 is coupled into it. Instead, the        counter-element 31 coupling the counterforce 51 into the        anchoring element can be moved during the anchoring procedure.        Combined motions of the tool and the counter-element are also        possible. It is further possible that the counter-element 31 is        designed as a tool and therefore also couples mechanical        vibrations into the anchoring element, i.e. the mechanical        vibrations are coupled into the anchoring element from two        sides. Finally, the counter-element can also be held by a        non-rigid element—e.g. a thread or a cable—from the proximal        side. It may also be intended that the distal part 1.11; 1.14 of        a multi-part embodiment of the anchoring element, as e.g. the        one according to FIGS. 3 a, 3 b, 3 c, can be held by such a        non-rigid element, which extends e.g. through an eyelet in the        distal anchoring element component. This has the advantage that        the non-rigid element can be removed after anchoring e.g. by        severing it and subsequently pulling at it from the proximal        side.

In all embodiments designed according to the second aspect of theinvention the force 4 to be coupled into the anchoring element acts atensile force on the tool 3 or (as in configurations according to FIG.18) if necessary on the counter-element 31. This requires an appropriatecoupling means on the vibratory device, which does not only need to besuitable for tensile loading but also for the transmission of mechanicalvibrations while under tensile loading. Such coupling means are known toone skilled in the art. They are often based on a form fit (screwjoints, snap fastenings, bayonet catches, etc.) or possibly a materialfit (glued, welded or soldered connections) or a friction fit (clampedconnections). Such generally known coupling means are not furtherdiscussed here. The principle of a form-fit coupling means is shown inFIG. 19. This coupling can be used as shown or in an alternative form.The vibratory device comprises an extension protruding into a clearanceat the proximal end of the tool 3 and widening towards its distal end sothat it can transmit a tensile force. For coupling the tool 3 to thevibratory device, these are moved perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 19relative to each other. Dovetails or similar modifications may beconsidered. In embodiments such as shown in FIG. 13 these or othercoupling means can also be used to transmit tensile forces from the tool3 to the anchoring element 1.

The anchoring process requires the application of a force onto theanchoring element. In most embodiments of the second aspect of theinvention and of the third aspect of the invention in many embodimentsof the first aspect, and of course also in combined aspects, the forceis applied between the tool 3 and a counter element instead of betweenthe tool and the object itself. In accordance with a special principleof the invention that can be applied in all situations where the forceis applied between the anchoring element and a counter element, theforce may be applied by hand by the person applying the method. As analternative, the force may be applied by means of some mechanism thatjust has to be activated by the person. Such means may in additionprovide for a well-defined force.

An example of such a mechanism is a spring mechanism as veryschematically illustrated in FIG. 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 20, thetool 3 is of the kind remaining, after anchoring, in place and beingdesigned for a further function. In embodiments where the liquefiablematerial after anchoring sticks to the tool, the tool may be viewed asbeing part of the anchoring element after anchoring. The anchoringelement 1 is merely illustrated as being tube shaped in FIG. 20; it may,for example, comprise a slit and be configured as described in FIGS. 1 athrough 2 b. Both, the tool and the anchoring element may alternativelyalso be configured as any other tool/anchoring element described in thistext or as any other embodiment of the invention. Between the ultrasonicdevice 81 rigidly attached, during anchoring, to the tool 3, and theanchoring element 1, a spring 82 is arranged. The spring exerts a forcebetween the anchoring element and (via the ultrasonic device 81) thetool. The spring may be configured so that the force is sufficient forthe anchoring process, thus during the application of the mechanicalvibrations, the tool is pressed against the anchoring element by saidforce. This approach is advantageous in situations where the forceduring the process should be well defined.

In the illustrated version of the “force applying mechanism” embodimentof the invention, the spring is in direct contact with the anchoringelement, the distal surface of the spring serving as the counterelement. However, a separate, for example, plate like counter elementmay be arranged between the spring and the anchoring element (notillustrated). The provision of a plate like counter element has theadditional advantage that the proximal end position of the anchoringelement is defined during the anchoring process.

A further feature of the embodiment of FIG. 20, which may be implementedfor different embodiments of the invention, especially for embodimentsaccording to the second and third aspect, and independently of the“force applying mechanism”, is the provision of a drilling functionalityfor the tool 3. To this end, the tool 3 comprises a distal end surface3.10 designed to be driven into the construction material. The distalend surface may be tip shaped and may in addition comprise reamingstructures, as for example known from WO 2005/079 696.

In embodiments where the tool 3 remains in place after anchoring, thetool often is provided with a distal portion with a larger crosssection, said distal portion being arranged distal of a main portion ofthe anchoring element (c.f. FIG. 4, FIG. 20.). In embodiments where thenecessary force is applied to the tool as a compressive force, this isoften not an option, as the tool there is moved “forward”, i.e. towardsa distal side during anchoring. FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment ofsuch “forward” anchoring, where the tool 3 may nevertheless remain inthe place of the anchoring after anchoring. To this end, the tool isprovided with retaining structures 3.13 that cause the tool to beretained by the anchoring element 1 after anchoring. In FIG. 21, also athread 3.12 of the tool is illustrated that may be used to fix someother object to the anchoring element.

FIGS. 22 a and 22 b illustrate an other embodiment of the second aspectof the invention that is especially suited for affixing the anchoringelement to a plate like object. The tool 3 is provided with reamingstructures 3.14 with a larger external diameter than the shaft 3.4. Thetool is first used to drill a hole into the object by means of thereaming structures. Thereafter, the tube shaped anchoring element 1 ispushed on the shaft. The external and internal diameters of theanchoring element 1 are such that it can pass through the hole, butabuts the reaming structures 3.14. For anchoring, the anchoring elementis pressed against the counter element 31 by pulling the tool 3, theanchoring element being compressed between the tool and the counterelement. The liquefiable material liquefies in contact with the objectmaterial, and if this construction material is hard with littleporosity, it may ooze out on the distal side of the object, form a bulgeand thereby act in a blind rivet like manner.

Instead of the tool comprising the reaming structures, it may alsocomprise a distal enlargement by which the force may act on the tool,and the hole in the object may then be drilled by an instrumentdifferent from the tool.

Referring to FIGS. 23 a and 23 b, 24 a, 24 b, and 25, further examplesof xthe third aspect of the invention are described. The embodiments ofanchoring elements 1 shown therein comprise an anchoring element section(in both depicted embodiments the anchoring elements consist of saidsection) consisting of a thermoplastic material, where during anchoringa distal portion of the tool 3 protrudes into an interior of saidsection and during anchoring spreads the anchoring element section frominside. This results in lateral forces onto the interfaces between theanchoring element and the object surface, thereby improving anchoring inlateral walls of the construction material. The depicted embodimentsshow two possibilities to spread the anchoring element, by the tool,from the inside:

-   -   The tool 3 is driven into the anchoring element during the        anchoring process, thereby enlarging an outer cross section        (FIGS. 23 a, 23 b). The tool in the shown embodiment comprises        barb-like structures for the tool being kept fixedly in the        anchoring element after anchoring.    -   The tool is not rotationally symmetric and is rotated during the        anchoring process, while rotation of the anchoring element is        inhibited (FIGS. 24, 24 b, 25). In FIGS. 24 a, 24 b, the tool        comprises a plurality of eccentrics 3.11, whereas in FIG. 25        both the tool and the opening in the anchoring element are        translation symmetric but not rotational symmetric, and are, in        the illustrated embodiment, hexagonal in cross section. The        depicted anchoring elements 1 comprise barb like protrusions        1.31 inhibiting rotation.

The embodiments of FIGS. 21-23 are all (further) examples of embodimentsof the invention where the tool 3 remains, after the anchoring process,in situ, and may serve as fasteners. The embodiments of these figures,therefore, also correspond to the above mentioned further aspect of theinvention. FIGS. 26-29 show further variants, where the first, second,and/or third aspect of the invention may be used for affixing a fastenerto the construction object, the fastener at the same time serving as thetool 3 coupling the mechanical oscillations and the force into theanchoring element during the anchoring the process.

The anchoring element 1 shown in FIG. 26 a is of the kind described forexample referring to FIGS. 3 a and 4. It is anchored in a board 21 of,for example, relatively soft and/or brittle material such as plaster ora wood compound. Behind the board 21, there is a cavity, as the board isaffixed by distance holders 102 to a wall 101. The method according tothe invention allows to soundly affix the tool 3—that after theanchoring serves as fastener, here with a threading 3.21—to therelatively weak board, because the liquefied material during theanchoring is primarily pressed in lateral directions and does not causethe board to be torn at the interface to the anchoring element. FIG. 26b illustrates the situation after the anchoring process.

FIG. 26 a further illustrates the generation of the force between thecounter element 31 and the tool 3 by way of a spring element 82, in theshown embodiment illustrated to comprise a plurality of springs guidedby a spring guide 83.

The set-up shown in FIG. 27 differs therefrom in that the tool 3 andanchoring element correspond to the third aspect of the invention andare of the kind described referring to FIG. 11 or FIG. 17 (but with“rearward” anchoring, accoring to the second aspect).

FIGS. 26 a, b, and 27 illustrate that the approach according to any oneof three aspects of the invention is especially suited to attach afastener to a hollow object, for example with comparably weak walls.

FIGS. 28 and 29 show an embodiment of the third aspect of the inventionfor fixing a fastener/tool 3 with a fastener head (a “nail”) to theconstruction material object 21. The tool is such as to spread theanchoring element 1 during the anchoring process and to be weldedthereto. Due to the approach according to the invention, i.e. the use ofan anchoring element as a kind of dowel for fixing the fastener 3, thefastener can also be attached to a material that would normally tend totear/flake off when a nail is driven into it, such as cardboard, poorquality wool composites, plaster etc. This is because the liquefiedmaterial interpenetrates structures of the material in a liquid state(thus, there are no shear forces) and after re-solidification isanchored relatively deep into it.

In the illustrated embodiments, the fastener is used to nail a board 106to the object, this, of course being by no means the only use of afastener and being shown for illustration purposes only.

The embodiment of FIG. 29 differs from the basic embodiment of FIG. 28in that in addition to the positive-fit anchoring by the anchoringelement 1, the tool 3 is also fastened like a conventional nail or pinby means of a tip 3.31 driven into the construction material 21, and theanchoring element and the tool are configured such that the anchoringelement is also pressed into the construction material in a forwarddirection (as illustrated by the arrows in the Figure).

Anchoring elements, devices and anchoring methods according to theillustrated or other embodiments of all aspects of the invention findtheir use in various situations where a firm connection between theanchoring element and the object is important. For specific applicationsreference is made to all applications as described in the publicationsWO 98/42988, WO 00/79137 and WO 2006/002 569, whose contents areincorporated herein by reference.

We claim:
 1. An anchoring element suitable for being anchored with theaid of mechanical vibrations in a bore in an object, the anchoringelement comprising: a coupling-in face, and a thermoplastic materialforming at least a part of an anchoring element surface, the anchoringelement being capable of being compressed along a compression axis notparallel to the coupling-in face when a compressing force is applied tothe coupling-in face; wherein at least one of the following conditionsis fulfilled: the anchoring element comprises at least two components,which are designed to be shifted relative to each other by thecompressing force along shifting surfaces extending obliquely to thecompression axis; the anchoring element is one piece and is spreadable;the anchoring element is one piece and comprises buckling locations, inwhich the anchoring element buckles through the effect of thecompressing force; whereby the anchoring element is shaped to beexpanded so that a distance between a peripheral anchoring surface ofthe anchoring element and the compression axis is locally enlarged whena compressing force is coupled into the anchoring element via thecoupling-in face while the thermoplastic material is in a solid state;wherein the thermoplastic material forming at least a part of theperipheral surface of the anchoring element is arranged at least inregions of the peripheral anchoring surface; wherein the anchoringelement is further capable of transmitting mechanical vibrations fromthe coupling-in face to the anchoring surface; so that, when theanchoring element is positioned in the bore and a compression force andmechanical vibrations are coupled into the anchoring element via thecoupling-in face, the anchoring element is caused to be compressed and,due to the distance enlargement, to be pressed at least locally againstthe side walls of the opening and therewith the thermoplastic materialis allowed to be at least partly liquefied where it is in contact withthe side walls and to be pressed into structures of the object in orderto form a form-fit connection after resolidification.
 2. The anchoringelement according to claim 1, wherein the coupling-in face is at leastpartly even and oriented perpendicular to the compression axis.
 3. Theanchoring element according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring elementcomprises at least two components, which are designed to be shiftedrelative to each other by the compressing force along shifting surfacesextending obliquely to the compression axis wherein at least one of thecomponents is spreadable by the compressing force.
 4. The anchoringelement according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring element comprises atleast two components, which are designed to be shifted relative to eachother by the compressing force along shifting surfaces extendingobliquely to the compression axis, wherein the components of theanchoring element, prior to anchoring, are separate or linked viapredetermined breaking or melting points.
 5. The anchoring elementaccording to claim 1, wherein the anchoring element comprises at leasttwo components, which are designed to be shifted relative to each otherby the compressing force along shifting surfaces extending obliquely tothe compression axis wherein the shifting surfaces are conical.
 6. Theanchoring element according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring elementcomprises at least two components, which are designed to be shiftedrelative to each other by the compressing force along shifting surfacesextending obliquely to the compression axis wherein the surface of thecomponents consist of thermoplastic material at least to the extent thatthe components are able to be welded together by the effect of themechanical vibrations and the compressing force.
 7. The anchoringelement according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring element is one pieceand comprises buckling locations, in which the anchoring element bucklesthrough the effect of the compressing force, wherein the bucklinglocations are weak points, which are able to be softened or liquefied bythe effect of the mechanical vibrations.